YOUNG musicians squared up at the final of a popular Battle of the Bands competition.

THe annual event at Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College, Darlington, saw five bands compete for the title, having come through a series of heats.

Dozens of fellow students turned out to see which band would take the title, with winning band offered the chance of recording time at The Forum Music Centre and the honour of taking home the Liam Harker Trophy.

The bands who took part were White Vinyl, Los Bastardos, Until We Meet, Escapada and Soul'd Out, with Until We Meet unanimously named the winners.

Band member, Liam Everett said: ‘‘All of the bands played at a high standard and we had a great time competing against friends from other bands.

"We entered the competition to gain more performance experience and, hopefully, more fans. It was a big surprise to win and we are grateful for all the effort that went into organising the event.

"It’s exciting to be able to record some of our songs with the 10 hours recording time we won, so thanks to everyone who was involved – it was a great experience.’’

Last year's victors, Hyde, also took to the stage to entertain the crowds while the votes were counted.

James Simon, from the college's Student Association, said: “Few events can show the energy at the heart of the Battle of the Bands, with writhing rocking, soothing soul and absorbing acoustics.

"The fresh and varied bands attracted many music hungry fans, all of whom left with their rhythmical thirst quenched. I can whole-heartedly say that this year’s Battle of the Bands was an unbridled artistic accomplishment."